Legislation Would Mandate Insurance Coverage of Mental Health Screenings

Montanans could have access to fully insured mental health screenings if a bill working its way through the Legislature passes.

Sen. Mike Yakawich, R-Billings, is carrying Senate Bill 244, which would mandate insurance coverage for standardized, evidence-based behavioral health screenings and assessments. The Senate passed the bill on a 40-8 vote last month and it is now up for debate in the House.

At a hearing in the House Business and Labor Committee last week, proponents, mainly healthcare providers and hospital representatives, urged the committee’s support of the bill.

JJ Carmody with Bil...